Home News 

Story

Homeowners Say Theme Park Fireworks Debris Ends Up In Yards

Posted: 5:22 pm EDT July 6, 2005Updated: 6:11 pm EDT July 6, 2005

Some Orlando homeowners got closer to some Fourth of July fireworks than they wanted. They live near Universal Studios and debris from the display landed right in their yards. Now they want Universal to make sure it doesn't continue to happen.

When visitors go to the theme parks, like Universal Studios, a spectacular display of fireworks is usually what ends the night. But for those who live nearby, the display can be a nightmare because of what is left behind.

"I've had firework ashes fall and burn the paint off of my car and it's happened again and the night before," said resident Peggy Handley.

Handley says the problem has been so bad in the past that she complained to Universal and officials agreed to have her car repainted and detailed.

"This one says, "Six-inch shell," and says, "If found, do not handle, contact local fire or police department,'" Handley said.

Debris is all over the Universal parking lot, and residents who live across the street said they are upset because pieces are flying into their neighborhood.

A Universal spokesperson said the park monitors wind conditions and sends cleanup crews outside the park to look for any debris. The company says fireworks are part of its theme park experience and is working hard to being good neighbors.

However, Handley said that's not good enough. "I would like them to move the firework show farther south on the property or not have them at all."

The Orlando Fire Department says it is looking into Handley's claim. Officials also add that Universal's shows have to adhere to national standards.

More Headlines

Make WFTV Your Power On

Did you ever turn your television off at night and notice the next morning that your set comes on to a different channel? You can set your cable box so that your TV comes on to the station you want. It's easy! Full Story ››
Step-By-Step Text Instructions


Click Picks
Video Clips
AP Photo/Peter Kramer
Heidi Klum and her post-baby body led the parade at the annual Victoria's Secret fashion show, which returned to New York with some fresh faces after four years on the road. View Images ››


Strange News Photos

From brilliant to bizarre, our 99-photo slideshow captures a variety of strange news. Photos are added often. Take A Look!

County-By-County News

Get Hyper-Local On WFTV.com

Visit our County-By-County section for the latest news headlines out of your county. » County-By-County

When you take videos or photos of Central Florida news or weather events, iWitness is your place to upload them. » iWitness

Visit your headquarters for county-by-county news and resources, and a place to share community videos and photos. » 9Central